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What to do in Paris in May 2026

Clémentine Santerre et la Rédaction Paris je t'aime - Updated on
In May, do whatever you like? One thing is certain: there is something for everyone in Paris this spring!

May 2026 promises to be a particularly good month for getting away, with two public holidays falling on a Friday – the 1st and the 8th - giving rise to long weekends for a Parisian break: from 1 to 3 May 2026 and from 8 to 10 May 2026. * Ascension Day* falls on Thursday 14 May this year, offering another opportunity for a long weekend.

Stroll through the most beautiful gardens and woods in Paris, explore the capital's iconic neighbourhoods, enjoy the banks of the Seine, have a drink on a rooftop bar or embark on a cruise on the Seine... Even on public holidays, Paris never stops!

💡Good to know

Many museums and monuments remain open on public holidays, so you can make the most of your stay. For all tourist information, Paris je t'aime - Tourist Office welcomes you and provides information!

Discover our guide to activities and experiences in Paris during the long weekends in May 2026.

🎯What to do in Paris on the weekend of 8 May 2026?

Every year, 8 May marks the end of the Second World War in Europe. It is a day of remembrance, but also a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a long spring weekend in Paris. And unlike 1 May, most museums and monuments remain open, with the exception of a few municipal museums. The perfect chance to (re)discover the capital’s cultural riches.

📍Must-see exhibitions to visit on 8 May 2026 and throughout the weekend

Art lovers have a date with major exhibitions across Paris. At the Louis Vuitton Foundation, don’t miss a major retrospective dedicated to the British artist with the Calder exhibition, which showcases iconic works blending modernity and visual poetry. The Grand Palais is also hosting several major exhibitions, whilst the Cinémathèque Française pays tribute to a cinema icon with an exhibition dedicated to Marilyn Monroe.

Continue your artistic journey with the photographs of the famous Martin Parr, or rediscover the unique world of Le Douanier Rousseau at the Musée de l’Orangerie. The Colors Festival 2026 opens its doors on 8 May for a colourful immersion into the world of street art. In a transformed urban setting, giant murals and art installations offer a striking visual journey, perfect for an original cultural outing during this public holiday.

Good news: these exhibitions are open on 8 May 2026 and throughout the weekend, and you can buy tickets directly on the Paris je t’aime website for some of them.

📍An immersive cultural experience for the whole family

Immerse yourself in spectacular worlds at Atelier des Lumières, which offers an exceptional immersive programme throughout the weekend: on 8 and 9 May 2026, let yourself be transported by a production centred on the Renaissance, before travelling even further back in time on 10 May 2026 with Prehistoric Planet, a fascinating experience for young and old alike combining digital art and visual storytelling.

📍Shows to discover or rediscover

Parisian stages will be buzzing all weekend with a rich and varied programme. Let yourself be captivated by the musical Chicago, a true classic of the genre, or by the unmissable family show The Lion King, running on 8, 9 and 10 May. The contemporary circus troupe Bormann is also back for several performances blending acrobatics and poetry.

As for dance, don’t miss Requiem (s) by Angelin Preljocaj at La Seine Musicale on 8 and 9 May, a powerful and contemporary production. Theatre and comedy lovers will enjoy How to Become a Parisian in One Hour, whilst the event Tous à l’Opéra !, from 8 to 10 May, offers a free behind-the-scenes look at the major opera houses.

📍Festivals and celebrations not to be missed

When it comes to festivals, Paris comes alive with an eclectic programme. Fans of electronic music won’t want to miss Paris Boiler Room on 7 and 8 May 2026, whilst the Jean Rouch International Festival celebrates documentary cinema. Food lovers will gather at the Fête du Pain, which begins on 8 May 2026, to celebrate French artisanal expertise. From 8 to 11 May 2026, come and be amazed by the boundless creativity of Parisian artists during the Père-Lachaise Studio Open Days. For four days, numerous studios in the neighbourhood will open their doors to the public, offering a unique opportunity to meet painters, sculptors, photographers and contemporary creators in their workspaces. Visitors can discover new works, chat with the artists and sometimes take part in demonstrations or interactive workshops. A true immersion in artistic and bohemian Paris, ideal for art lovers and curious visitors seeking inspiration.

Photography enthusiasts will enjoy the Circulation(s) festival, whilst music lovers can get into the groove at the Madrague Festival from 7 to 10 May 2026 or the Jacques Fromage Festival at the Enghien Racecourse.

Finally, Parisian nightlife promises to be lively with events such as La Butte Sauvage at the Cabaret Sauvage on 9 May 2026, its after-party at Babour Sauvage, and the queer event MontVénus on 9 May 2026, to keep the celebrations going in an inclusive and festive atmosphere. From 8 May 2026, head to Le Mazette, on the banks of the Seine in the 12th arrondissement, for a huge free 12-hour party celebrating the venue’s 5th anniversary, from 4pm on 8 May until 4am the following morning!

Good to know: On 8 May, head to the banks of the Seine to the terrace of Rosa Bonheur sur Seine, which is also open for this public holiday. With its friendly atmosphere, music and stunning views of the Seine, it’s the perfect place to extend your day in a summery atmosphere right in the heart of Paris.

🎯Ascension Day: What to do over the long weekend from 14 to 17 May 2026?

** Ascension Day** is a Christian festival celebrated 40 days after Easter, which explains why its date changes every year. In 2026, it falls on Thursday 14 May, paving the way for a long weekend to get away from it all or explore Paris in a different way.

📍Rediscover Notre-Dame de Paris at Ascension

This religious holiday is the perfect time to (re)connect with Paris’s spiritual and architectural heritage. Reopened on 8 December 2024, Notre-Dame Cathedral offers a spectacular new experience. Extend your visit with access to the towers of Notre-Dame , offering breathtaking views of the capital, then continue the experience with Éternelle Notre-Dame, a virtual reality immersion to be enjoyed on the forecourt or in the La Défense district.

📍Exhibitions to discover over the Ascension long weekend

The Ascension weekend showcases artistic creation in all its forms. Rediscover the world of Impressionism with an exhibition dedicated to Auguste Renoir, immerse yourself in imaginary worlds with an exhibition on unicorns, or explore the socially conscious lens of photographer Lee Miller.

The Collège de France is also hosting an enriching exhibition, whilst history enthusiasts can admire fascinating collections of mummies at the Musée de l'Homme. The Zoo Art Show continues to enliven the contemporary art scene with street art, whilst the Petit Palais showcases Visages d’artistes. Finally, the Arab World Institute invites you on a cultural journey with an exhibition dedicated to Byblos, exploring its history and civilisation. To mark the Ascension Day long weekend, the Colors Festival 2026 offers a vibrant artistic interlude in the heart of a reinvented venue. With its monumental works and immersive installations, the exhibition appeals equally to contemporary art enthusiasts and visitors seeking an extraordinary experience.

📍Fun museums for the whole family to visit over the 2026 Ascension long weekend

Why not start with a family outing to one of the museums open over the Ascension weekend? Marvel at the optical illusions at the Musée de l’Illusion, spark your children’s curiosity at Science Expériences, or have fun at the Paradox Museum. Fancy rediscovering your inner child? Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of celebrities at the Musée Grévin, or indulge in the delights of Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, perfect for those with a sweet tooth! Younger visitors will also enjoy the Musée en Herbe, with its fun and interactive exhibitions, whilst the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art will appeal to contemporary art lovers with its bold programme.

📍Must-see monuments to visit over the 2026 Ascension long weekend

Even on Ascension Day, Paris shines with its iconic landmarks: admire the view from the Eiffel Tower. For a more unusual outing, explore La Défense Art Collection, an open-air contemporary art gallery. To discover all these landmarks from above, head to Parc André Citroën for a ride in the basket of the Ballon Generali, which takes you on a tour of Paris and the Greater Paris area from a height of 150 metres! Finally, don’t miss a trip up the Arc de Triomphe to admire the most beautiful views of the Champs-Élysées.

📍Amusement parks, zoos and aquariums to inspire dreams or thrills

Over the long weekends in May 2026, treat yourself to magical moments or thrills: head to Disneyland® Paris, Parc Astérix, or the Jardin d’Acclimatation for a fun-filled day out. Fancy some nature and animals? The Paris Zoological Park welcomes you for a green getaway, just a stone’s throw from the city.

📍Life in a château: a royal getaway

For the May 2026 bank holidays, take a timeless break at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: a 17th-century masterpiece, illuminated by its magnificent French gardens. Walks, history and elegance await you.

Another gem, the Château de Chantilly opens its doors to you with its sumptuous Musée Condé and grand stables, set in lush green surroundings.

📍In the footsteps of the great artists in Île-de-France

Fancy a touch of the countryside and art? Set off on an excursion in the footsteps of the masters: the Claude Monet Foundation in Giverny immerses you in the world of the painter and his enchanting gardens. The Château d’Auvers invites you to relive Van Gogh’s Impressionist era. As for heritage, discover the Maison Caillebotte and its exhibition Nature is not a backdrop.

📍Concerts, shows and musicals

The Ascension weekend also offers a wealth of shows. Catch The Lion King and Chicago for a taste of Broadway in Paris, or let yourself be surprised by the immersive experiences Luminescence and Aura at Les Invalides.

On stage, La Dame aux Camélias is running from 14 to 16 May 2026 at the Opéra Garnier, whilst How to Become a Parisian in One Hour continues to charm visitors. Music lovers won’t want to miss JUL’s concert at the Stade de France, or festive evenings such as Roselka Bastille on 14 and 17 May 2026.

Good to know: To mark the Ascension Day long weekend, Rosa Bonheur sur Seine will be open exceptionally on 14 May 2026 so you can enjoy the season’s first drinks on the terrace. In this unique waterside setting, let yourself be swept away by a festive and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for savouring this long Parisian weekend.

📍Highly anticipated festivals

The festival line-up is particularly packed during the Ascension Day long weekend. The Supersonic’s Block Party Festival will bring the Bastille district to life from 14 to 16 May 2026, whilst the Madrague Festival and Versailles Electro on 16 May 2026 and the Bal de l'Amour on 15 May 2026 promise electrifying atmospheres.

Other events round off the programme, such as La Fierté Ours from 13 to 17 May, celebrating diversity in a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

📍A popular and unmissable festival

Finally, you simply can’t miss the Foire du Trône held in the Bois de Vincennes. With thrilling rides, food stalls and a Ferris wheel, this iconic funfair promises a fun and festive outing for all ages

Check out our What’s On page for the weekend programme

🎯 What to do over the 2026 Spring Bank Holiday weekend in Paris?

The weekend of Pentecost, celebrated fifty days after Easter, falls on Sunday 24 May in 2026, with a public holiday on Monday 25 May. A perfect opportunity to enjoy a long weekend in Paris, packed with cultural discoveries, open-air shows, thought-provoking exhibitions and royal getaways.

⚠️ Please note: as Monday is one of the weekly closing days for many museums, remember to check opening times before planning your visits.

📍 Rediscover Notre-Dame de Paris during Pentecost

A powerful spiritual symbol, Notre-Dame de Paris, which reopened in December 2024, offers a uniquely moving experience for this religious festival. Rediscover its restored stained-glass windows, its legendary gargoyles and the harmony of its Gothic architecture. Extend the experience with access to the towers of Notre-Dame for a breathtaking view of Paris, a guided tour or the immersive experience Éternelle Notre-Dame, available on the forecourt or at La Défense.

📍 Must-see exhibitions over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend

Contemporary art, fashion, photography and history take centre stage across the capital. At the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation, discover exhibitions blending fashion and artistic creation, whilst the Cinémathèque Française pays tribute to Marilyn Monroe. At the Fondation Louis Vuitton, the Calder exhibition continues to fascinate visitors.

Over at the Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection, the Clair-Obscure exhibition offers a contemporary reflection on the image, whilst the Monnaie de Paris celebrates comic books. The Palais de Tokyo explores representations of the body with Normes et corps . Other cultural highlights enrich the weekend, notably the joint programmes France-Korea 2026, America 250 and the exhibition on Zeus at the Musée des Arts et Métiers. Open over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, the Colors Festival 2026 invites visitors on a bold artistic exploration blending street art, colour and immersive creations. An inspiring outing, accessible to all, offering a different way to enjoy the public holiday Monday in Paris.

Finally, don’t miss European Museum Night, which offers free evening access to numerous museums in a unique atmosphere.

📍 A weekend for families

For a fun day out, head to the Paradox Museum, the Museum of Illusions or Science Expériences, where young and old alike will be amazed by scientific and visual phenomena.

Fancy a sweet treat? The Choco-Story Chocolate Museum is a treat for sweet-toothed visitors. To relive the magic of the stars, the Grévin Museum is always a safe bet.

The weekend also hosts events dedicated to fantasy cultures, including the Salon du Fantastique and the Japan Party from 23 to 25 May, perfect for fans of pop culture, cosplay and fantasy worlds.

📍 Royal getaways around Paris

Make the most of the Spring Bank Holiday to escape to the most beautiful châteaux in Île-de-France. The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is hosting the Rendez-vous Grand Siècle on 23 May, an immersion in 17th-century lifestyle. At Château de Chantilly, admire the collections of the Musée Condé in an exceptional setting.

At the Palace of Versailles, enjoy a spectacular weekend with Les Grandes Eaux Nocturnes on 23 May 2026, a Marie-Antoinette and Grandes Eaux evening on 24 May 2026, followed by the Fêtes Galantes on 25 May 2026, combining costumes, music and performances in the royal gardens.

📍 In the footsteps of the artists

Set off to discover the great masters in Île-de-France. The Monet Foundation in Giverny immerses you in the world of the Impressionist painter, whilst The Château d’Auvers traces the history of 19th-century artists.

Maison Caillebotte will be fully open on 23 and 24 May 2026, with access to the grounds available only on 25 May 2026. the Domaine de Chateaubriand in Châtenay-Malabry invites visitors on a literary stroll, whilst the Rodin Museum – Meudon site is open at the weekend but closed on Whit Monday.

📍 Festivals and urban culture

The Parisian cultural scene comes alive with numerous festivals. The Zoo Art Show takes over the city with street art and live performances, whilst We Love Green brings the Bois de Vincennes to life with concerts, talks and environmental initiatives.

Jazz enthusiasts will enjoy the Festival Jazz Saint-Germain-des-Prés from 22 to 24 May 2026, whilst other festive events punctuate the weekend, such as the Marvelous Island Festival , Le Cercle Festival au Bourget, and the Fête de la Nature from 20 to 25 May 2026.

📍 A popular and timeless funfair

Always a must-see, the Foire du Trône continues to bring the Bois de Vincennes with its thrilling rides, food stalls and Ferris wheel. The final days of this iconic funfair coincide with the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, perfect for a festive family outing.

This weekend also hosts a variety of events such as the Paris International Tournament, the Taste of Paris food festival on 23 and 24 May (closed on Mondays), offering a wonderful variety of experiences ranging from sport and gastronomy to socialising.

Major events in May 2026

📍Fun museums for the whole family to visit on long weekends in May 2026

Why not start with a family outing to one of the museums open on Ascension weekend? Marvel at the optical illusions at the Museum of Illusions, stimulate your children's curiosity at Science Experiences, or have fun at the Paradox Museum. Want to rediscover your inner child? Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of celebrities at the Musée Grévin, or succumb to the sweet treats at Choco-Story, the chocolate museum, ideal for those with a sweet tooth!

📍Must-see monuments to visit during the long weekends in May 2026

Even on Ascension Day, Paris shines with its iconic landmarks: admire the view from the Eiffel Tower or discover a unique panorama of the city from the Montparnasse Tower. For a more unusual outing, explore La Défense Art Collection, an open-air contemporary art gallery. To see all these monuments from above, head to Parc André Citroën for a ride in the Ballon Generali balloon, which will take you 150 metres above Paris and Greater Paris!

📍Amusement parks, zoos and aquariums to dream or thrill

During the long weekends in May 2026, treat yourself to some magical moments or thrills: head to Disneyland® Paris,
Parc Astérix, or the Jardin d'Acclimatation for a fun-filled day. Fancy some nature and animals? The Paris Zoological Park welcomes you for a green getaway, just a stone's throw from the city.

📍Life in a castle: a royal getaway

For the May 2026 bank holidays, take a break from the hustle and bustle at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: a 17th-century masterpiece, illuminated by its magnificent French gardens. Walks, history and elegance await you. Another gem, the Château de Chantilly opens its doors to you with its sumptuous Condé Museum and large stables, set in lush green surroundings.

📍In the footsteps of the great artists of Île-de-France

Fancy a breath of fresh air and artistic inspiration? Take a trip in the footsteps of the masters of art: the Claude Monet Foundation in Giverny immerses you in the world of the painter and his enchanting gardens. The Château d'Auvers invites you to relive the Impressionist era of Van Gogh. In terms of heritage, discover the Maison Caillebotte, which invites you to relive the Impressionist era of Van Gogh. culture/chateau-d-auvers-p1051) invites you to relive the Impressionist era of Van Gogh. In terms of heritage, discover the Maison Caillebotte or literary romanticism at the Domaine départemental de la Vallée-aux-Loups – Maison de Chateaubriand.

📍Concerts, shows and musicals

Enjoy a classical moment at the Madeleine Church with Vivaldi's Four Seasons . If you missed Les Grandes Eaux Musicales at the Château de Versailles on 8 May 2026, there will be a catch-up session on 29 May 2026. You'll still be laughing with Olivier Giraud - How to Become Parisian in One Hour at the Théâtre des Nouveautés. For a taste of Broadway in Paris, don't miss The Lion King at the Théâtre Mogador.

📍A highly anticipated festival

The Supersonic's Block Party Festival will be held at various venues in the Bastille district, including Supersonic between 14 and 16 May 2026.

📍A popular and unmissable festival

The tradition continues with the Foire du Trône in the Bois de Vincennes: attractions, rides and delicacies for a 100% festive outing.

Discover Paris along the Seine and its canals

A cruise on the Seine or the Parisian canals allows you to explore Paris from the water, passing by its most famous monuments: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame de Paris...

This is an accessible and enjoyable activity, both during the day and in the evening. To choose the right route or find a cruise that suits your needs, check out our article dedicated to this unmissable Parisian experience.

More info

Concerts in Paris in May 2026

Paris is set to host a wealth of unforgettable concerts this spring!

May 2026 promises to be an extraordinary month on the Parisian music scene! Metal comes to the Olympia with Machine Head on Saturday 2 May 2026, while the same date marks a historic milestone for Fally Ipupa**, who is set to perform for the first time at the Stade de France, before a second date on 3 May 2026. Le Grand Rex is giving pride of place to legends with Paul Simon on 3 and 4 May 2026, followed by Umberto Tozzi for his farewell concert on 6 May 2026. As for large venues, the Accor Arena will host Tame Impala on 3 May 2026, followed by K-pop group TWICE on 16 and 17 May 2026. Electro music will be rocking the Adidas Arena with RÜFÜS DU SOL on 9 and 10 May, followed by Zucchero on 27 May 2026. The French scene continues at the Zénith de La Villette, where Renaud will celebrate his 50-year career from 14 to 16 May 2026, followed by Vanessa Paradis on 21 and 22 May, Lorie on 23 and 24 May, Gaëtan Roussel on 27 May and Flo Rida on 28 May 2026. Rap then takes on XXL proportions with Jul at the Stade de France on 15 and 16 May 2026, followed by Damso at Paris La Défense Arena from 28 to 31 May 2026. Finally, the grand finale of this musical month will see Aya Nakamura take to the stage at the Stade de France on 29, 30 and 31 May 2026 for what is already shaping up to be a historic event.

Exhibitions in Paris in May 2026

The highly acclaimed exhibition Mummies at the Musée de l'Homme ends this month, on 25 May 2026. So make the most of these last few days to discover the fascinating history of this practice, which has been present almost everywhere in the world throughout history.

On 17 May 2026, the fun exhibition Small Steps on the Moon at the Air and Space Museum and the exhibition Flops?! Dare, Fail, Innovate at the Musée des Arts et Métiers will close their doors.

On 24 May 2026, three photography exhibitions will come to an end: American Images: Dana Lixenberg at the Maison Européenne de la Photographie, " En ces lieux" by Jo Ractliffe at the Jeu de Paume Paris and Martin Parr. Global Warning, also at the Jeu de Paume. These are must-sees for photography fans. Don't miss the first few days of “ Kazuo Kitai, l'éloge du quotidien" (Kazuo Kitai, in praise of everyday life), one of the great masters of post-war Japanese photography, at the Maison de la culture du Japon

The dual fashion exhibition at the Dior Gallery and the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation, which brings the two fashion houses into dialogue, will also be coming to an end: the Dior Gallery until 3 May 2026, the Azzedine Alaïa Foundation until 24 May 2026.

New additions: the Espace Richaud and the Musée Lambinet in Versailles will host an immersive exhibition dedicated to Leonardo Cremonini from 27 May to 5 October 2026.

The month of May 2026 in images

Shows in Paris in May 2026

Whether it's theatre, opera or dance, the shows in May are sure to impress!

In May 2026, Paris offers a variety of captivating shows. At the Cité de l'Histoire, ‘César’ offers an immersive and historical experience, plunging spectators into ancient Rome with reconstructions and grandiose sets, while the show Christophe Colomb transports visitors back to the era of the Great Discoveries. Prolong the excitement with Éternelle Notre-Dame - l’expérience immersive, which can be discovered under the Parvis de Notre-Dame or in the La Défense district. From 1 January 2026, the experience will only be available at the Cité de l'Histoire.
Cirque Bormann presents "Arbre", a poetic show combining acrobatics and emotion, highlighting the deep connection between man and nature. At the Théâtre des Variétés, Arsène Lupin, Gentleman Illusionniste is playing until 9 May 2026, while Le Bossu de Notre Dame is on stage at la Gaîté Montparnasse until 25 May 2026.

On the opera front, from 28 May to 14 June 2026, Ercole amante by Antonia Bembo will be performed at the Paris Opera. The Palais Garnier will host John Neumeier's ballet La Dame aux camélias from 5 to 23 May 2026.
Top Hat, Irving Berlin's classic musical, is still running at the Théâtre du Châtelet until 3 May 2026.

Each event promises a memorable experience, combining tradition and modernity.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE CIRQUE BORMANN

Outings for children in May 2026 in Paris

This May, there is something for all ages, including the little ones! Babies are increasingly being catered for by cultural venues (and artists), who are keen to make room in their programmes for activities tailored to this very special audience!
In May 2026, Paris is brimming with exciting activities for children. The Paradox Museum offers an adventure full of optical illusions and interactive experiences that defy reality. Science Experiences, an immersive science park, allows young people to discover science in a fun way through captivating experiments. At the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, the exhibition ‘Danser’ invites children to explore the world of dance, while "Dogs and Cats" immerses curious little ones in the world of their favourite animals, combining games, discoveries and interactions.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE PARADOX MUSEUM

Trade shows, festivals and major sporting events in Paris in May 2026

May is traditionally a month of public holidays and long weekends, but it's also a busy month for all kinds of trade shows, fairs and festivals. Shall we take a look at the programme?

Fairs and exhibitions

In May 2026, Paris will come alive with a rich variety of trade shows, fairs and festivals. From Thursday 28 to Sunday 31 May 2026, the Belleville Artists' Open Days offer a unique immersion into the world of creation, allowing visitors to meet artists in their workspaces. The Paris Fair, from Thursday 30 April to Monday 11 May 2026, remains a must-see event for lovers of innovation and discovery.
Jardins, Jardin, which showcases the art of landscape gardening, returns for a new edition from 27 to 31 May 2026, in the heart of the Villa Windsor park in the Bois de Boulogne, offering a display of green spaces, entertainment, conferences and workshops.

La Salon Fantastique/Japan Party brings together fans of fantasy and Japanese pop culture at Parc Floral from 23 to 25 May 2026. This combined event features over 400 stands, a variety of entertainment and an immersion in two exciting worlds: medieval fantasy with costumes and cosplay, and modern Japanese culture with fun and colourful activities.

Naturally, the trade show that celebrates nature with organic and natural products, returns from 29 May to 1 June 2026 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

Festivals

As for festivals, the Napoléon Dynamite Festival will transform the River Seine into a floating musical laboratory on 12 and 13 May 2026. From 14 to 16 May 2026, the Supersonic's Block Party Festival turns the streets into a vibrant music scene, whilst the Jazz Festival in St Germain-des-Prés sets the tone for the city from 11 to 24 May 2026 with spellbinding jazz performances. The Oberkampf Music Festival takes over on 20 and 21 May 2026 with a line-up of emerging artists.

ManiFeste Festival, from 3 to 27 June 2026, celebrates digital arts and contemporary music. From 22 to 24 May 2026, the Air and Space Museum) (Le Bourget) will host Cercle Festival, featuring artists such as Eric Prydz, Kölsch and Monolink. The Marvellous Island Festival is finally back on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026 at Vaires-Torcy beach. Paris is buzzing with culture and creativity throughout the month.

Major sporting events in Paris in May 2026

In May 2026, Paris will become the capital of sport with a series of major events.
La Pyrénéenne, an iconic cycling race, brings together cycling enthusiasts on a demanding course. Le Grand Steeple Chase in Paris, on 16 and 17 May 2026, offers a captivating equestrian spectacle at the Auteuil racecourse, attracting horse racing enthusiasts. ‘Military and Sports: It's a Match!’, a unique event, celebrates the alliance between sport and defence, with various demonstrations and competitions.

Roland Garros, from 18 June to 7 June 2026, is the unmissable event for tennis lovers, where the best players compete on clay courts. Going to Roland Garros is, of course, a guarantee of watching the greatest tennis matches and the exploits of the best players. Borg, Lendl, McEnroe, Noah, Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Evert, Graf, Navratilova and Serena Williams have all contributed to the legend of the French Open, which attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators every year in a unique atmosphere on the circuit.

On Sunday 10 May 2026, a new and highly original marathon will be held in Île-de-France: the medieval marathon in the heart of the medieval villages between Blandy-lès-Tours and Provins.

The equestrian festivities will kick off on 31 May 2026 with the Qatar Prix du Jockey Club at the Chantilly Racecourse.

An electrifying night at the Jeu de Paume

On 22 May 2025, come and get your brain cells and trainers working at the Jeu de Paume, from 8pm to midnight!

Algo-Rythmes is an arty evening at a low price (€5): free admission to the exhibition Le monde selon l'IA, performances, DJ sets, art dating... all with drinks and snacks available on site.


BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE EVENING

❓Frequently asked questions

Which museums and monuments are open on May 1st in Paris?

On May 1st 2026, many museums and monuments in Paris close for the public holiday ‘Fête du Travail’ (‘Labour Day’). Nevertheless, some iconic venues remain open. The Musée Jacquemart-André, renowned for its art collections, welcomes visitors. The Eiffel Tower too is open, for panoramic views of the capital. Tucked away in a historic district, The Musée de Montmartre also remains open to discover the artistic history of Paris.

Where to go out in the evening in May in Paris? Your guide to going out!

In May, Paris has a lively nightlife scene. Bars in the Marais have a friendly vibe with numerous terraces to choose from. The Pigalle district, with clubs like the Moulin Rouge, is ideal for a night out with dancing. The Seine quaysides become a great place for partying, and Parisians and tourists flock there for outdoor aperos. Finally, houseboats on the Seine programme party evenings with music.

Free places to walk in Paris in May

May is an ideal month to enjoy a walk in Paris. The Luxembourg Gardens, with their vast green spaces and statues, is a peaceful and pleasant place to relax. Les Buttes-Chaumont, a hilly park with a grotto and a suspension bridge, is a perfect park for a bucolic stroll. You can also stroll along the banks of the Seine - a Unesco World Heritage site - admiring its emblematic monuments.